Evans Cadman Yamoah, Ghanaian high jumper and 2023 African Games gold medalist, faces possible expulsion from the University of Central Missouri over unpaid tuition fees totalling $15,000.
The athlete, who previously competed under an NCAA scholarship, exhausted his eligibility after two years, leaving him without financial support to continue his education in the United States.
In an interview on Joy FM’s Game Plan, Mr Yamoah described his situation as an unexpected setback, saying, “At this point, I’m sad, I’m stranded. This is not what I would have expected for myself. I wanted more for myself and my country. However, circumstances have brought me this way.” He appealed to Ghanaians for assistance, expressing his dedication to both his studies and future competitions.
“I’m pleading with everyone who is able to come to my aid to pay for this tuition. I know once this is paid for, I will put in the work and all the energy to bring joy back to every Ghanaian. There are more games ahead and more opportunities to tap into,” he added.
Yamoah’s performance on the track earned him significant recognition. Earlier this year, he claimed gold at the African Games by clearing 2.23 meters, out-jumping Morocco’s Hammouda Saad and South Africa’s Benjamin Links Mpho. He was also the 2023 NCAA Division II National Runner-Up in high jump with a school-record height of 2.21m (7-3.00), finishing third in the MIAA Outdoor Championships and second in the MIAA Indoor Championships. His achievements at the NCAA-II Indoor Championships earned him another National Runner-Up title, clearing 2.18m (7-1.75).
To support students like Yamoah, the NCAA established the Division II Degree Completion Award Program in 2001, which provides financial assistance for student-athletes who have completed their athletic eligibility to finish their undergraduate degrees.
Over $9 million has been awarded through this program, with a 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. For the 2024–2025 cycle, awards are capped at $15,000, and applicants must be within 40 semester hours of completing their degree, in good academic standing, and unable to receive any other athletic aid from the institution. The selection process involves a committee review of academic records, personal statements, financial aid information, and endorsements.
Eligible student-athletes can apply through the NCAA’s Program Hub from October 15, 2024, with a deadline of February 17, 2025. Final decisions rest with a committee comprising representatives from Division II institutions, including faculty athletics representatives and directors of athletics.
Yamoah’s eligibility for this aid depends on meeting all requirements, as he is among many applicants competing for limited funds. Meanwhile, his future at the University of Central Missouri remains uncertain as he seeks to settle his debt and continue his education and athletic career in the U.S.
